Bob Turner Memorial Trust

Because Life is for Living

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Sylvan & Bob

Sylvan Rose & Bob Turner

Greetings, and welcome

Thank you for dropping by. The Bob Turner Memorial Trust was established in 2009 by Sylvan Rose, a poet and author living in Scarborough, following the loss of her fiance to cancer. He was just 52 years old.

Bob Turner, who was born and lived in Reading, Berkshire, was a man of extraordinary courage. He was confined to a wheelchair at the age of 18, when a motorcycle accident left him paralysed from the chest down. But somehow he managed to adjust, bringing a cheerful smile to many, always willing to help others. Through his own difficulties he emerged triumphant, and was a blessing to all who knew him.

Sadly, in early 2009 he was diagnosed with malignant melanoma. Less than two months later he passed away in the Duchess of Kent House hospice in Reading.

Says Sylvan, 'Bob and I were hoping to marry, but this proved to be a port too far. Although he may no longer be with us, he is very much alive in the hearts of all those who loved him. It is in his memory that I am working to raise funds for deserving causes, and shall always continue to do so.

'Bob was the love of my life and for those who have lost loved ones to cancer, or those who face adversity through physical disability, I shall always endeavour to make a difference. When he once remarked to me that I 'didn't see his wheelchair', I realised that this was not true of many people. And he was right. I only saw a very caring and considerate man, who had a lovely smile and a great sense of humour.

'Had Bob lived, I know he would have made a great husband. Sadly this was never to be. It is only fitting then, that I should ensure his contribution to the world continues to bring kindness and comfort to those most in need. With your support, may this become his legacy.'

Make a Donation

If, after checking out the available goods elsewhere on this website, you would prefer to simply make a donation, rest assured that any amount you may choose to give will be used to further the work of the Trust. The aims of the Trust are detailed in its Constitution, which states that it 'aims to support charities, good causes and individuals that [Sylvan Rose] believes Bob Turner would have wished her to support. These will include cancer charities, hospices, and physically disabled people, particularly where community integration is a key aim.'

On behalf of the people, whom your donation will support, thank you.

Introducing 'Soul Feathers'

Thanks to Macmillan Cancer Support and their internet forum for all who are affected by cancer, Sylvan Rose met Annie Morgan in 2010. Their shared love of poetry had already led to Sylvan producing Patterns of Hope to help UK hospices, while Annie was keen to do something similar to help Macmillan. Well Annie succeeded, teaming up with Ronnie Goodyer at Indigo Dreams - an experienced publisher of poetry and fiction. The result is Soul Feathers - a lovely collection of 280 pages of uplifting poetry, including one by Sylvan Rose, plus many more by some very well-known poets together with those who are being published for the first time. To buy a copy and help Macmillan Cancer Support in the wonderful work they do, please visit Indigo Dreams.

Because Life is for Living...